GOURMET GURU
From Germany with love
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
Germany
FAMILY Wife Son
LEISURE HOURS Spending quality time with his family FAVOURITE DISH Chicken Tikka Masala and Garlic Naan
FAVOURITE DRINK
Masala Tea
HIMSELF IN ONE WORD
Creative Chef Robert is the Executive Chef at Hilton Colombo. He loves to experiment with flavours and concoct mouth-watering dishes, and firmly believes that every day brings exciting challenges and opportunities to learn something new.
Q: Who inspired you to venture into the hospitality trade?
A: My grandmother is an amazing woman with incredible taste; and since her delicious food never failed to put a smile on people’s faces, she inspired me to venture into this trade.
Q: So how does your day in the kitchen unfold?
A: First, I do the supervisory rounds to ensure that everything is in order before getting on with my paperwork, which covers hygiene standards, order placements and so on. Every day presents a new challenge for me and together with my amazing team, I strive to fulfil the wishes of our guests.
Q: And your first dish was...? A: Homemade bread.
Q: What do you consider the greatest achievement in your career as a chef?
A: My greatest accomplishment is my work itself. It has helped me become fully aware of my purpose in life. There’s no greater joy than seeing others enjoy my cooking.
Q: Tell us about some of the emerging trends in food... A: Healthy food, meat alternatives, ancient grains and ‘back to basics’ foods are gaining popularity.
Q: Would you have any advice for the home cooks amongst us?
A: Always use fresh ingredients from local markets where you can touch, feel and smell the freshness.
Q: What are your three favourite ingredients?
A: Herbs, spices and a whole lot of love.
Q: Name three favourite utensils that you can’t do without... A: My knife, cast-iron frying pan and mortar.
Q: Any cooking tips or tricks…? A: Cook with the right oils such as almond, avocado, canola or grape seed oil. They can be cooked at low and high temperatures without burning, and are much healthier.
Q: What are your future plans? A: I aspire to become a General Manager of a Hilton property. I would also love to open my own restaurant someday.
Q: And finally, your advice to aspiring chefs…
A: Never stop learning – and keep dreaming because one day, all your dreams will come true!